Presidential candidate Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago on Thursday slammed the administration of President Benigno Aquino III for being complacent on the West Philippine Sea dispute, and for being confident that the international tribunal will rule in its favor on the case it filed against China. She also hit the government for relying heavily on US support to deter Chinese expansionism, noting that both military giants have interests in controlling the West Philippine Sea. China has reportedly stationed up to five ships in the contested Quirino Island, barring access to Filipino fisherman, a move which Santiago said highlights failure of negotiations despite ongoing international arbitration.

Araneta, M. R., & Araneta, S. (2016, March 4). Miriam hits complacency on sea dispute. Manila Standard, pp. A1, A2.